State Farm-City Chairman and Alabama Farmers Federation Director of Communications Jeff Helms

The Alabama Farm-City theme for 2021 is “Down to Earth — Agriculture Sustains Alabama.”

Down to Earth. It’s a phrase used to describe individuals who are honest, friendly and unpretentious. In the context of agriculture, Down to Earth conjures ideas of hard work, deep roots and perseverance.

As Alabama celebrates Farm-City Week 2021, Down to Earth provides a platform to begin a conversation about conservation. It’s a theme directing our attention to the ways farmers sustain Alabama agriculture and forestry. Down to Earth not only focuses attention on the soil as the foundation for the industry, but it also describes the character, work ethic and stewardship of those whose lives and livelihoods are intrinsically linked to the land.

At a time when climate, the environment and sustainability are garnering headlines and dominating public policy debates, it’s fitting for Alabama Farm-City to take a closer look at the ways farmers are conserving natural resources. The theme should not be a launchpad for activism. Rather, it’s an opportunity for education and dialogue.

What roles do agriculture and forestry play in a healthy environment? How are modern agricultural practices and new technologies increasing efficiency and lessening negative environmental impacts?

What are farmers doing to reduce erosion, improve water quality and provide wildlife habitat? How do agriculture and forestry help with carbon sequestration? Why is profitability an important part of the sustainability conversation?

Down to Earth gives students and Farm-City volunteers an opportunity to explore these questions and others. Through 2021 Farm-City Week activities, communities can reflect on how far agriculture has come regarding conservation; current opportunities and innovations in farming; and future challenges to feed, clothe and shelter a growing world.

This theme also is a chance to highlight the shared responsibility famers and their city neighbors have for protecting the environment. It reminds all Farm-City participants of their connection to the Earth.

Conservation extends beyond the farm gate to transportation, processing and marketing. Stewardship practices used on large tracts of farmland also can be applied to lawns and green spaces. Efficiency on the farm can inspire consumers to reduce waste in the home, restaurant and store.

Most importantly, Down to Earth provides a forum to understand the importance of sustaining farms and forestland for future generations. To do so, farmers must have the resources, tools, markets and financial opportunity to continue.

Down to Earth — Agriculture Sustains Alabama. It celebrates the steadfast, trustworthy and relatable men and women who care for our planet and the ways in which their work provides reliable products for our families, communities and economy.

In Coffee County Gavin Mauldin is the chairman of the Farm-City Week Committee. Other members are Josh Elliot, Doris Skipper, Annie Hendrix, Nikki Drewery, Debbie Rhodes, Cindy Kinney, Ashley Merritt, Erin Grantham, Sandy Bynum, Dan Presley, Pat Presley, Nancy Ellis and Eleanor Andress.

The Coffee County Farm-City Week Banquet is Thursday, Nov. 18, at the Farm Center in New Brockton. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the banquet begins at 6 p.m.

State Farm-City Chairman and Alabama Farmers Federation Director of Communications Jeff Helms will be the guest speaker at the banquet. Tickets are free to the public but you must call (334) 894-5596 to reserve your tickets.

At the banquet Coffee County Farm-City Week award winners being honored are Hendrix Farms, Beef Award;  Ray Davis, Conservation Award; Jeff Cowen, Poultry Award; Nickolas Weeks, Row Crop Award; Glenn and Lisa Crumpler, Farm of Distinction; Julian LeCompte, Forestry Award; Emily Strickland, Outstanding Future Farmer of America Member; Dorsey Trailers, Industry of the Year; and 3D Cattle Company, Business of the Year.

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